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OTTAWA, April 7, 2016 /CNW/ - On April 9th 2016, from sunrise to sunset, all Legion Branches will fly their Canadian Flags at half-mast to commemorate Vimy Ridge Day. Many Legion branches will also hold ceremonies to commemorate this important event in their local communities.

"Remembering this battle is particularly important to the Legion and its nearly 300,000 members," says Dominion President of The Royal Canadian Legion, Tom Eagles. 'It is important because Canadians were able to do what no other Allied force could do at that time during First World War: Capture Vimy Ridge," adds Eagles.

"Preparations are already under way to mark next year's 100th anniversary, which will coincide with Canada's 150th anniversary – a particularly fitting coincidence since many have suggested that it was following the Battle of Vimy Ridge that Canada truly became a nation," adds Eagles.

Background

The capture of Vimy Ridge by all four divisions of the Canadian Corps that fought together, for the first time, played an important role in giving Canada the right to participate as a signatory at the Treaty of Versailles in 1919.

In 2003, the Federal Government decreed by an Act of Parliament that 9 April each year will be called Vimy Ridge Day. The Canadian Flag on the Peace Tower will also be flown at half-mast from sunrise to sunset in honour of those who made the ultimate sacrifice at this momentous battle. It is the only battle that has been recognized in this manner by an Act of Parliament.

SOURCE The Royal Canadian Legion Dominion Command

For further information: Bruce Poulin at Dominion Command, at (613) 591-3335 ext. 241 or by cell at (613) 292-8760 or bruce.poulin@legion.ca